A week ago, the Denver Broncos stepped up in Aqib Talib‘s absence, with Bradley Roby earning AFC Defensive Player of the Week honors in his stead. On Sunday, not so much …
According to Pro Football Focus, Roby was the second worst player in all of football during Week 9 (only trailing Donald Stephenson on the other side of the ball), giving up eight receptions for 99 yards. Given that Derek Carr only completed 20 passes for 184 yards, Roby was essentially responsible for over 50 percent of Oakland’s passing attack.
All of this is to say that the Broncos could really use Aqib Talib back. Unfortunately, his return may still be a ways away.
Talked to multiple #NFL sources Sunday who believe Talib won't play until after bye week to give back time to heal. #Broncos @DenverChannel
— Troy Renck (@TroyRenck) November 7, 2016
It makes sense to play it safe with one of Denver’s most important players, but every game he misses is important. The Broncos aren’t running away with this division anymore. For the first time in a long, long time, their destiny is not in their hands.
At this point, every win matters, and Talib makes winning a whole lot easier.
